GM to Allow Consumer Test Drives at Auto Shows

[rickaren]

GM to Allow Consumer Test Drives at Auto Shows

Dec. 28, 2009

If you’ve been to an auto show, it’s probably because you think it’s cool to be able to touch the shiny cars and even sit inside them. But wouldn’t it be even cooler if you actually got to drive them? If General Motors has its way, that’s exactly what you’ll get to do.

According to the Detroit News, “The company is in discussions with Cobo Center and Detroit officials about setting up a street course near Cobo to allow the public to test-drive select models during the North American International Auto Show next month.”

Though this is a relatively new idea, Detroit won’t be the first time GM has allowed consumers to get behind the wheel. The Detroit News reports that Cadillac conducted more than 1,400 test drives at the New England International Auto Show in Boston.

At this year’s Detroit show, which opens to the public on Jan. 16, 2010, GM plans to showcase 60 cars, trucks and concept vehicles. “GM is especially eager to get consumers in its latest products such as the 2010 Buick LaCrosse sedan, Cadillac CTS wagon, and Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossovers,” writes the Detroit News.

The Detroit Free Press adds that the company’s four core brands – Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac and Buick – will share 85,000 square feet of space: “While that’s down from slightly more than 100,000 square feet last year, with Saturn, Pontiac, Saab and Hummer sold or discontinued, the core brands get 25% to 35% more space to showcase 41 vehicles, engine technology and a variety of interactive displays.”

If you can’t make the Detroit show, you may still get your chance at an auto-show test drive. According to Autoblog, “GM is also looking to set up drives at several other major shows, including Chicago in February, but the biggest push will take place in major metropolitan areas on the east and west coasts, where GM product consideration is weakest.”

LINK:GM to Allow Consumer Test Drives at Auto Shows - U.S. News Rankings and Reviews